Australia became a Party to the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control on February 27, 2005.

Smoke Free Places: Smoking is prohibited in virtually all indoor workplaces, indoor public places, and on public transport, as well as in some outdoor places, through a combination of national and sub-national law - the latter of which is more stringent.

Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship: Nearly all forms of tobacco advertising and promotion are prohibited by national and sub-national laws. There are some limited exceptions such as restricted advertising at the point of sale in some specialist tobacconists, and payments to retailers and hospitality venues. Under national law, although financial or other sponsorship by the tobacco industry is not prohibited, publicity or public acknowledgment of that support is greatly restricted. Some States and Territories have banned all forms of tobacco sponsorship.

Tobacco Packaging and Labeling: Cigarettes packages must display: 1) one of 14 warning messages and corresponding graphics occupying 75 percent of the front face, 2) the same warning message and corresponding graphic with a corresponding explanatory message and Quitline phone number occupying 90 percent of the back face, and 3) an information message on one full side.

As of December 1, 2012, plain packaging of tobacco products available for retail sale in Australia is required. The packages must be “drab dark brown,” made of cardboard, rectangular in shape, with no trademarks or other marks anywhere on the outer surface or inner surface of the package. Other than health warnings, the tobacco packages may contain only: brand, business or company name; relevant legislative requirements; and any other mark or trade mark permitted by regulations. Packages may not have inserts or onserts, make a noise, or produce a scent, and may not include any features designed to change after retail sale. Misleading packaging and labeling, including terms such as “light” and “low tar” and other signs, is prohibited.

Tobacco Taxation and Prices: The World Health Organization recommends raising tobacco excise taxes so that they account for at least 70 percent of retail prices. Tobacco excise taxes in Australia are below these recommendations.